BY: Alexis Eichelberger

Cottrill’s career began as many did. As a teenager, she recorded covers, and then she started creating original songs and posting them to SoundCloud and YouTube. Her breakthrough came in 2017 when her lo-fi, groovy track “Pretty Girl” went viral. Since then, more internet-driven hits and a stunning debut album have propelled her to stardom.

In the past two years, Cottrill has already made some significant moves, expanding her discography and more. In October 2020, she announced she had formed a brand new band called Shelly with fellow indie artist Claud and her former Syracuse classmates. The band has released two singles so far, and we’re hoping there is more to come.

 

Most importantly, Clairo released her sophomore album in July 2021. Sling is full of delicate, folk-inspired melodies that soothe the soul. It’s received widespread praise from critics for its timeless beauty.

To celebrate Cottrill’s stellar album, we’re counting down our favorite songs she’s released so far. Here are Clairo’s six best songs.

 

“AMOEBA”

This song is one of our favorite new additions to Clairo’s discography. “Amoeba” is the second song on Sling and a groovy delight. It’s the perfect mix of pop and folk with a hint of retro vibes. The lyrics are heavier than the melody implies, but they somehow still radiate the comfort that comes with intense reflection.

 

“BUBBLE GUM”

“Bubble Gum” is a sweet, stripped-down melody with a charming youthfulness to it. The simple ukulele melody and bashful lyrics like “Sorry I didn’t kiss you” remind us of the delicate butterflies we feel when we fall for someone new.

 

“PRETTY GIRL”

We had to include Clairo’s first viral single on our list of favorites. “Pretty Girl” has a kind of homemade essence that makes it oh-so-easy to enjoy. An unpretentious lover promises to be whatever the one they desire needs, even if it’s just a pretty face.

 

“FLAMING HOT CHEETOS”

“Flaming Hot Cheetos” is an early Clairo hit that we still love. But, alas, this song is not as spicy as the title implies. Instead, it’s got an extraordinary kind of longing to it, with a simple lo-fi melody in the background.

 

“SOFIA”

“Sofia” is Clairo’s biggest hit so far, thanks to TikTok. The song skyrocketed in popularity on the platform more than a year after its release. The soft rock melody is stunning thanks to Clairo’s sweet voice, but it’s made even more special by Danielle Haim’s (yes, of HAIM’s) drumming. 

 

“BLOUSE”

Last but certainly not least, we have the first single from “Blouse.” This song is romantic and melancholy all at once. And as icing on the cake, the incomparable Lorde sings backup vocals. How could we not love this song?

 

BONUS TRACK: THE WALLOWS’ “ARE YOU BORED YET? (feat. CLAIRO)”

Although it’s not a Clairo song, it is one of her finest collaborations, and it deserved a spot on our list. Her voice pairs so sweetly with the boys of the Wallows, and we couldn’t resist sharing it with you.